Abstract: A flap 10 has a first portion 11 flexibly connected to a lid 2 and a second portion 13 connected to the first portion 11 by an integral flexible hinge strip 14. The second portion also 13 carries pivot pins 15 which locate into an upstanding rim 16 of the lid portion 2. These pivot pins are slightly offset vertically and horizontally from the flexible hinge 14 thus enabling the flap 10 to be toggled between two stable conditions. In the first of these the hinge 14 is snapped to a position above the pivot pins 15 thus pressing the second flap portion 13 positively down into the opening 6. If pressure is applied to the first portion 11 the flexible hinge 14 will be forced down past and below the pivot pins 15 thus causing the second flap portion 13 to flip upwardly into the alternative stable condition.

Abstract: A lid (2) for a closed container incorporates an opening which can be closed by a door (5) provided with side walls (18) so that even when the door is open, the only access to the interior of the container is through a slot (8) in a wall (7) of the door unit. Needles or other sharps may be introduced through the opening (8) into the container for safe storage. When the door (5) is pushed down to close the opening, a two-part live hinge formed by grooves (14) acts to bias the door into the closed position. Re-opening is achieved by pressing on the flange (6) incorporating the grooves (14). A flap (21) provides a secondary closure device.

Abstract: A container for contaminated materials having an upper entry chute (29) and a hinged door (12) which normally hangs vertically closing the inner end of the chute. When the container is full the door (12) can be lifted until hooks (39) at its lower end engage in apertures (42) in the lid of the container and the whole lid can then be pivoted into a closed position closing the entry opening to the chute and thus providing protection from the contaminated chute surface (29). The door has barbed detents (44) which engage in apertures (48) to hold the door positively sealed in its final closed position. In the example illustrated in FIG. 6 there is a separate hinged closure (72) for closing the outer end of the entry chute.

Abstract: A disposable container for used items of medical equipment such as hypodermic needles, has an entry chute in its upper wall and an internal self-closing door flap which will swing downwards to allow an object to enter and swing upwards under gravity to close the chute. When the container is full a locking probe is inserted through a hole in the top wall, where it is locked by barbs and presses down a lever attached to the door to hold the door positively closed without any risk of accidental opening.